Are you seeking relief from your jam-packed daily schedule or the mountain of unanswered emails in your inbox like me? Do you need some time away to gain perspective and recharge? If so, the Arcadia Men’s Retreat may be exactly what you need.
This retreat allows you to grow deeper in your faith, connect with other Christian men, play in God’s creation, reflect on your purpose, and be renewed in spirit, mind, and body.
Here are five reasons to attend the Arcadia Men’s Retreat:
- Grow deeper in your faith: This retreat offers men an intentional time to focus on their spiritual life away from the responsibilities of the everyday grind. Dr. Andrew Root, renowned speaker and author, will lead sessions to challenge and encourage us as we navigate the changing role of churches in our society. While this will be Andy Root’s first time speaking at Camp Arcadia, I have had the honor of hearing him speak at other conferences, and his books have greatly influenced my faith. I appreciate his focus on the theology of the cross – that we can most fully know God’s love for us by looking at the cross of Christ. Rev. Gabe Kasper, lead pastor at University Lutheran Chapel in Ann Arbor, MI, and popular Camp Arcadia dean, will serve as the chaplain for the weekend. You can always count on Gabe for his Gospel-focused messages, pastoral heart, and punk rock knowledge.
- Connect with other men: Build trust and strengthen friendships by engaging in conversations about faith and life, playing games, or simply hanging out together around a campfire. Help reverse the trend of the male friendship recession. According to the 2021 survey by the American Survey Center, only 27% of men have six or more close friends compared to 55% in 1990. The rate of men with no close friends increased from 3% to 15%—the decline in male friendships peaks during mid-life, when family life responsibilities and work pressures often take precedent. Take the time to focus on your friendships by setting apart this weekend for connection.
- Get outside and play: During the weekend, you will have time to explore the beauty of God’s creation. You may mountain bike through the Northern Michigan woods, kayak on Lake Michigan, or play pickleball, disc golf, and corn hole. Some men choose to come up on Thursday and golf at one of the area courses on Friday.
- Unplug, rest, and reflect: As I often say at Camp, this is your chance to disconnect from technology and reconnect with your Savior and with each other. We want you to unplug from your devices and the demands of modern life to help experience much-needed rest. The peaceful surroundings of Lake Michigan and the forests provide you with a perfect place for personal reflection.
- Be renewed in spirit, mind, and body: This renewal occurs when we step out of our everyday routines and immerse ourselves in a Christian community. We encounter God and see more clearly how He is active in our lives. We leave encouraged and strengthened as we return to our homes, families, and work.
I hope you can join me at the Arcadia Men’s Retreat from September 26-28 this year. A few spots are still available, so register today!
